PHOTO: AFP

Lionel Messi, with a smiling Rodrigo De Paul just behind him, appears focused and ready for Argentina’s next World Cup assignment as the defending champions prepare to face Austria in Dallas tonight. Having scored his first World Cup hattrick against Algeria in their opener last week, Messi will hope to continue his scintillating form and help the Albiceleste secure their place in the Round of 32 -- making his 39th birthday, just two days away, all the more special.